Our Favorite National Park Adventures

In 1864, President Abraham Lincoln took the first step toward protecting and preserving land for future generations by signing the Yosemite Grant. This grant, the first of its kind, was the basis for establishing our National Parks. A few years later, under President Ulysses S. Grant, America’s first National Park was established—Yellowstone National Park. Since then, the U.S. National Park Service has preserved and protected more than 85 million acres. Today, there are 63 National Parks spanning 29 states and two territories. 

At onX, we believe in conserving public land for the benefit of the people. Over the last 10 years, onX has helped protect thousands of acres of public lands. It’s our mission to awaken the adventurer inside of everyone while working to remove the barriers that stand in the way of backcountry exploration. 

We’re excited to celebrate National Park Week. The National Park Service protects many of our favorite Adventures, and a handful of them are highlighted below. Which one will you check off your list next?

Glacier National Park: Highline Trail

Highlighting our home state of Montana, Glacier National Park’s Highline Trail is a 19.4-mile there-and-back backpacking Adventure. If you’re searching for some epic views, wildlife viewing, wildflowers, waterfalls, glaciers, and backcountry chateaus, the Highline Trail is the Adventure for you.

Olympic National Park: High Divide Loop

This ridgeline hike will take you past breathtaking views, pristine lakes, and beautiful alpine meadows. Toward the end, you’ll hear Sol Duc Falls before you see it.

Sequoia National Park: Alta Peak Trail

Alta Peak, a 16-mile there-and-back, offers stunning views for a weekend backpack trip. You’ll need some endurance to climb into the high country of Sequoia National Park—you’ll gain 6,785 feet before descending into a beautiful meadow.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Great Smoky Mountain Peaks Loop

At 26.6 miles, this loop isn’t an easy walk in the woods. Backpackers who take on this challenge will be rewarded with some of the best views in the Smokies, but be prepared for wet feet and uneven footing.

Rocky Mountain National Park: Lost Lake Trail

Trek into the alpine and discover Rocky Mountain National Park’s Lost Lake. This Adventure is 9.8 miles there-and-back and will offer you the opportunity to explore the park and the neighboring wilderness. You’ll need to plan ahead on this trip and score a permit to this trail.

Zion National Park: West Rim Trail

Searching for a weekend trip in the Southwest? Head to Zion National Park and check out of the West Rim Trail. You’ll tread 14.5 miles there-and-back, climbing the highest mountain in the park, Lava Peak, while winding through the main floor of the canyon.

Acadia National Park: Champlain Mountain

Champlain Mountain is the shortest hike on our list, but be prepared for slick granite and ever-changing weather. Pack a good lunch and spend a little extra time at the summit—the views are well worth the hike.

Crater Lake National Park: Mount Scott

Looking for a day hike? Head to Crater Lake National Park’s Mount Scott, a 5-mile there-and-back hike with less than 1,000 feet of elevation gain. At the top of Mount Scott, you’ll capture some of the greatest views of Crater Lake the area has to offer.